On Friday, Nov. 14, 2014, Cheltenham senior John Lewis was recognized at a special news conference for signing a letter of intent to compete in track at Clemson University. To view photos of the signing, please visit the Photo Gallery.
John Lewis – Clemson University (Track & Field)
Major: Undecided
Reasons for choosing Clemson: “I chose Clemson because they really showed care and compassion. They told me to go on a visit even though there was a problem with the NCAA Clearing House, so they showed they really cared about me.
“They’re also building a young squad, and the coaches know what they’re doing, so I feel confident going with a young squad. It’s a good environment. It’s a family.”
What was the progression that led you to competing in track at the collegiate level? “The summer of ninth grade was my first year of running track, and I got a couple of national medals over the summer. So then I was like, ‘I should keep running to see how far I can go with it.’”
Dr. Robert Beale says: “It’s his work ethic that makes him good. Many times people think – ‘This is just a talented guy. He can run fast naturally.’ He had some talent, but he actually worked at it. I know of no other character trait that would make a champion than the willingness to work. He has the willingness to work, and he will work. He is a workaholic. He loves practice. He loves pushing himself to the limit. He’s a good problem to have. Sometimes I have to actually back him off because he’s working too hard.
“He’s goal oriented. He loves setting goals, and he said he loves breaking record. That’s when I step in and say, ‘Records are not the most important thing to make yourself better.’
“It’s a joy watching him grow as an athlete and as a young man. He has matured beyond measure. I’m going to miss him when he graduates, but he has left a legacy here that many of his younger peers can follow. He has broken several records. He’s broken the two indoor records in the 800.
“He’s going to leave a whole lineage of records before he leaves here. His work ethic and the respect of his peers and the respect of his opponents are just outstanding, which really says a lot. As a competitor and student-athlete, he’s highly respected in the school. He’s respected by his teammates, he’s respected by his opponents, and the opposing coaches have high regard for him.
“He brings excitement to the meet. Now it’s to the point where he goes to compete, and people are there to see what John Lewis is going to do.”
About John:
Favorite food: Mashed Potatoes
Favorite movie: Need for Speed
Favorite music: Hip Hop
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